The NBA G League Elite Camp launched with fervor at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena, featuring 45 draft-eligible prospects eager to showcase their talents in front of NBA scouts and executives.
2024 G League Elite Camp Day 1 Recap
Previous editions of the NBA G League Elite Camp have seen the participation of notable NBA talents such as Jose Alvarado, Caleb Martin, Terance Mann, Max Strus, Mac McClung, a two-time AT&T Slam Dunk champion and the 2023-24 Kia NBA G League MVP, along with Kenneth Lofton Jr., who earned the title of the 2022-23 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year.
The G League Elite Camp is the second big pre-draft event, following the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament.
Amidst the backdrop of this high-stakes event, characterized by intense competition and unwavering determination, Day 1 of the G League Elite Camp delivered a captivating display of talent and potential.
Split into two games, the day brimmed with electrifying plays, standout exhibitions, and glimpses into promising futures.
Game 1
The opening matchup ignited the arena with a display of skill and athleticism as the first set of prospects took to the court. USC’s Boogie Ellis illuminated the court during the game. The former Trojan asserted himself as a multifaceted force early and often.
Ellis, a dynamic guard, left an indelible mark by tallying a game-high 23 points, along with 4 rebounds and 4 assists. His performance epitomized relentless drives, polished shooting, and astute playmaking. Ellis’ ability to dictate the flow of the game and deliver pivotal plays solidified his status as the standout performer on Day 1 of the Elite Camp.
Sharing the limelight was San Diego State’s Jaedon LeDee, whose commanding presence in the paint garnered recognition. LeDee showcased his athleticism and power with emphatic dunks and authoritative post moves.
As the final buzzer sounded, the box score reflected a game defined by stellar individual performances and competitive play, setting the stage for the day’s subsequent matchup.
Game 2
The second game of the day continued the trend of high-octane action and standout displays of talent. The spotlight shifted to Alabama’s Aaron Estrada. Estrada earned an invite to the G League Elite Camp following his impressive play at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament.
Estrada’s defensive tenacity and offensive firepower were on full display as he registered 16 points and 4 assists. His knack for generating scoring opportunities and disrupting opponents defensively underscored his potential impact at the professional level.
Also making waves in the latter game were Arizona’s Caleb Love and New Mexico’s Jaelen House. Love’s explosive athleticism ignited the crowd. While House showcased his two-way prowess with stellar defense and timely scoring.
Looking Ahead to Day 2
Throughout both matchups, numerous prospects captivated scouts. The aerial exploits of Villanova’s Mark Armstrong and Washington State’s Isaac Jones took center stage.
As the curtain fell on the first day of the G League Elite Camp, the performances of Ellis, LeDee, Estrada, Love, and House emerged as the highlights. Their exceptional contributions not only underscored their individual skills.
Day 2 of the G League Elite Camp promises even more thrills and excitement, as onlookers await the next chapter in this captivating journey of athletic excellence. With one more day of action awaiting, the stakes are elevated. Prospects will vie for coveted berths in the 2024 NBA Draft Combine.